This registry has been around for over 20 years and is the largest not-for-profit pet identification and recovery service in the United States. They offer a 24/7 recovery hotline and will even cover the cost of a pet’s return transportation if they are found more than 500 miles from home.
Pros:
The AKC Reunite registry is one of the most well-known and respected in the industry, with a long history of providing reliable and efficient services.
The registry is accessible to a wide range of animal welfare organizations and shelters, making it easier for lost pets to be reunited with their owners.
The registry offers a variety of services, including 24/7 lost pet recovery, a free lost pet alert, and a personalized pet recovery kit.
Cons:
The cost of registering a microchip with AKC Reunite can be on the higher end compared to other registries.
Some pet owners have reported difficulty with customer service and a lack of responsiveness when trying to update or change information on their pet’s microchip.
The prices for AKC Reunite microchip registration vary depending on the package you choose. A basic registration package, which includes the microchip and lifetime enrollment, starts at around $30. Additional services, such as the lost pet recovery package, can be added for additional fees.
2. HomeAgain
This company offers a comprehensive pet recovery service that includes a 24/7 recovery hotline, a lost pet alert system, and a lost pet specialist to assist in the recovery process. They also offer a “Pet Poison Control” hotline for added peace of mind.
Pros:
HomeAgain offers a wide range of services including lost pet alerts, pet recovery, and emergency medical assistance.
Their microchips are ISO-compliant, meaning they can be read by any scanner worldwide.
They offer a free online account where pet owners can update their contact information and view their pet’s microchip information.
HomeAgain also offers a variety of membership options, including a basic package and a premium package with added benefits such as veterinary assistance and travel coverage.
Cons:
Some pet owners have reported difficulty reaching customer service, leading to delays in reuniting lost pets with their owners.
The cost of HomeAgain’s microchip registration can be quite high, with prices ranging from $17.99 to $49.99 per year.
Some have also reported that HomeAgain’s microchips have a tendency to migrate, which can make it difficult for scanners to detect them.
3. Avid Identification Systems
Avid has been in the microchip business for over 30 years and offers a variety of services for pet owners, including a 24/7 recovery hotline and an online portal for updating contact information. They also have a “Return-to-Owner” program that offers rewards to those who return lost pets to their owners.
Pros:
Avid is one of the most widely recognized and respected microchip registries in the pet industry. They have been in business for over 30 years and have a reputation for high-quality products and excellent customer service.
Avid microchips are ISO-compliant, meaning they meet international standards for compatibility and functionality. This means that if your pet ever travels internationally, their microchip will be easily readable by most scanners.
Avid offers a variety of registration options, including lifetime registration and multi-year registration. This gives pet owners the flexibility to choose a plan that best fits their needs and budget.
Avid’s online portal allows pet owners to easily update their contact information, view their registration status, and even transfer ownership of their pet’s microchip.
Cons:
Avid’s microchips are slightly more expensive than some other registries, with prices starting at around $20 for a single microchip.
Some pet owners have reported difficulty reaching Avid’s customer service department, which can be frustrating if you need assistance with your registration or have a question about your pet’s microchip.
While Avid is widely recognized and respected, some veterinarians and shelters may be more familiar with other registries and may have trouble reading an Avid microchip.
4. Found Animals Foundation
This non-profit organization offers a free microchip registry and recovery service for pet owners. They also have a “Microchip Lookup” tool that allows veterinary professionals to check the registry for a pet owner’s contact information.
Pros:
The Found Animals Foundation offers a free microchip registration service for pet owners, making it a cost-effective option.
They have a comprehensive database that is easily searchable, making it easier for lost pets to be reunited with their owners.
They also offer a microchip lookup service for shelters and veterinarians, making it easier for them to identify and contact the pets’ owners.
They offer a 24/7 lost pet recovery service, providing pet owners with additional peace of mind.
Cons:
The Found Animals Foundation is only available in the United States and Puerto Rico, limiting its accessibility for pet owners who travel internationally.
While the registration is free, there is a fee for updating contact information or transferring ownership of the pet.
Some pet owners may prefer to use a microchip registry that is specific to their country or region.
5. PetLink
This company offers a variety of services, including a 24/7 recovery hotline, an online portal for updating contact information, and a lost pet alert system. They also have a “Pet Detective” program that assigns a dedicated case manager to assist in the recovery process.
Pros:
PetLink is a widely recognized and respected microchip registry, which means that most veterinarians and animal shelters will have no trouble scanning and identifying a pet that has been registered with them.
PetLink offers a variety of services, including online registration, lost pet recovery, and 24/7 customer support.
PetLink’s website is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it simple for pet owners to register their pets and update their contact information as needed.
PetLink’s recovery services are thorough and effective, with a success rate of over 90% for reuniting lost pets with their owners.
Cons:
PetLink’s registration fees can be on the higher side when compared to other microchip registries. Prices vary depending on the type of service and package you choose, but they generally range from $19.99 to $29.99 per year.
PetLink’s customer service can be slow to respond to inquiries, which may be frustrating for pet owners who are in a hurry to register their pets or report them as lost.
PetLink’s recovery services are not free and may cost extra if you need to use them. This can be an added expense for pet owners who are already dealing with the stress and expense of a lost pet.
In conclusion, it is important to choose a microchip registry that offers reliable and comprehensive recovery services for lost pets. The registries listed above have proven to be trustworthy and user-friendly for both pet owners and veterinary professionals.
Best microchip for dogs
When it comes to microchipping your dog, it is important to choose a reputable and reliable brand. I have compiled a list of the best microchips for dogs on the market.
HomeAgain Microchip
This microchip is one of the most widely used and accepted by animal shelters and veterinarians. It has a unique identification number that can be read by universal scanners, making it easy for lost dogs to be reunited with their owners. The HomeAgain microchip also includes a lifetime registration with the American Kennel Club’s Companion Animal Recovery service, which helps to ensure that your dog’s microchip information is up to date and easily accessible.
Avid Microchip
The Avid microchip is another popular choice among veterinarians and animal shelters. It has a unique identification number that can be read by universal scanners and comes with a lifetime registration with the American Animal Hospital Association’s Pet Microchip Lookup service. This microchip also includes an advanced tracking feature that allows you to track your dog’s location in case they become lost.
The Datamars microchip is a high-quality option that is widely accepted by animal shelters and veterinarians. It has a unique identification number that can be read by universal scanners and comes with a lifetime registration with the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Pet Microchip Lookup service. This microchip also includes a feature that allows you to update your contact information online, ensuring that your dog’s microchip information is always up to date.
FAQs about best microchip registry
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision:
What is a microchip registry?
A microchip registry is a database that stores information about your pet’s microchip, including the unique identification number, your contact information, and your pet’s details. This information is used to reunite lost pets with their owners in case they wander away or get lost.
How do I choose the best microchip registry?
When choosing a microchip registry, consider factors such as the registry’s reputation, customer service, database security, and ease of use. Look for a registry that has a good track record of reuniting lost pets with their owners and has positive reviews from satisfied customers.
Is it necessary to register my pet’s microchip?
Yes, it is necessary to register your pet’s microchip. Without registration, your pet’s microchip is essentially useless. When you register your pet’s microchip, you provide the registry with your contact information, which is essential for reuniting you with your pet if they get lost.
What are the benefits of microchipping my pet?
Microchipping your pet provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or removed, unlike collars or tags. This means that even if your pet loses their collar or tag, they can still be identified and returned to you. Microchipping also helps prevent pet theft and can aid in resolving disputes over ownership.
How does a microchip work?
A microchip is a small, electronic chip that is implanted under your pet’s skin. The chip contains a unique identification number that can be read using a special scanner. When a lost pet is found, the scanner is used to read the microchip, and the registry is contacted to obtain the owner’s contact information.
Can a microchip be removed or stop working?
A microchip cannot be removed or stop working on its own. However, it is possible for a microchip to move or migrate from its original location, which can make it harder to read. It is important to have your pet’s microchip checked regularly to ensure that it is still in the correct location and can be easily read.
How do I update my pet’s microchip information?
If you move or change your contact information, it is important to update your pet’s microchip information with the registry. This can usually be done online or by contacting the registry directly. Keeping your pet’s microchip information up to date ensures that you can be contacted if your pet is found.
How long does it take to register a pet’s microchip with a registry?
The process of registering your pet’s microchip with a registry is quick and easy. Most registries offer online registration, which can be completed in a matter of minutes. You will need to provide your contact information and your pet’s details, including their name, breed, and age. Once you have completed the registration process, the registry will store your information and link it to your pet’s microchip.
How much does it cost to register a pet’s microchip with a registry?
The cost of registering your pet’s microchip with a registry varies depending on the registry you choose. Some registries offer free registration, while others charge a fee. However, the cost of registration is typically low compared to the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your pet is protected.
Is it safe to register my pet’s microchip information online?
Yes, it is safe to register your pet’s microchip information online. Reputable registries use secure servers and encryption to protect your personal information. It is important to choose a registry that has a good reputation for data security and privacy. Additionally, you should avoid sharing your password or other personal information with anyone.
What happens if my pet’s microchip is not registered?
If your pet’s microchip is not registered, it cannot be traced back to you if your pet is lost. This means that if someone finds your pet, they will not be able to contact you and return your pet to you. To ensure that your pet is protected, it is essential to register your pet’s microchip with a reputable registry and keep your information up to date.
Can I change my pet’s microchip information if I need to?
Yes, you can change your pet’s microchip information if you need to. If you move or change your contact information, you should update your pet’s microchip information with the registry as soon as possible. This can usually be done online or by contacting the registry directly. It is important to keep your information up to date to ensure that you can be contacted if your pet is found.
What should I do if I find a lost pet with a microchip?
If you find a lost pet with a microchip, you should take the pet to a local veterinary clinic or animal shelter to have the microchip scanned. The scanner will read the unique identification number on the microchip, and you can use this information to contact the registry and obtain the owner’s contact information. By reuniting lost pets with their owners, you can help ensure that all pets are safe and protected.
Can I register my pet’s microchip with more than one registry?
While it is possible to register your pet’s microchip with more than one registry, it is not recommended. In fact, most microchip manufacturers and veterinarians advise against registering with multiple registries as it can create confusion and make it harder to locate your pet if they are lost. It is best to choose one reputable registry and ensure that your information is up to date.
How can I ensure that my pet’s microchip information is kept up to date?
To ensure that your pet’s microchip information is up to date, you should periodically check your information with the registry and update it as needed. This is especially important if you move or change your contact information. You can also ask your veterinarian to scan your pet’s microchip at each visit to ensure that it is still functioning properly.
Will my pet’s microchip ever need to be replaced?
Microchips are designed to last a lifetime and do not need to be replaced unless they malfunction. However, it is important to ensure that your pet’s microchip is still readable by having it scanned periodically by your veterinarian or at an animal shelter. If your pet’s microchip is no longer functioning properly, your veterinarian may recommend replacing it.
What should I do if my pet’s microchip is lost or damaged?
If your pet’s microchip is lost or damaged, you should contact the registry where it was registered to obtain a new microchip. You should also update your pet’s information with the registry to ensure that your contact information is up to date. It is important to act quickly to ensure that your pet’s identification is current and accurate.
Will my pet’s microchip track their location?
No, your pet’s microchip is not a GPS tracker and cannot track your pet’s location. The microchip only contains a unique identification number that can be used to link your pet to your contact information. If your pet is lost and someone finds them, they can scan the microchip and contact the registry to obtain your contact information.
What happens if I sell or give away my pet?
If you sell or give away your pet, it is important to update their microchip information with the registry to reflect the new owner’s contact information. This can usually be done online or by contacting the registry directly. This will ensure that the new owner can be contacted if the pet is lost or found.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
